Five things Chelsea learned from the 0-0 draw with Manchester United

Guus Hiddink will be learning plenty about Chelsea every game (Picture: Getty Images)

Chelsea and Manchester United clashed at Old Trafford in what could be described as a battle of two declining former title contenders.

Both sides were looking to arrest a decline, and prove that they could get back on track by scoring a knock-out blow against a weary opponent.

Despite being entertaining, the game lacked any killer instinct or precision that would have produced a victor.

So what did we learn from the game?

1) A draw was a good result for both teams

In the build-up to the game the consensus was that, due to the dire circumstances of both teams, the game was do or die.

In the end, both sides were able to spin positives away from the draw. Louis van Gaal will probably live to fight another day, whilst Guus Hiddink has a reasonable start in charge to build on as we move into the second half of the season.

2) Chelsea need a bit of luck

Since Jose Mourinho left performances have improved, however, Chelsea need results and they need them fast.

The Blues have not been far away from securing victory in their last two games and all they need is for something to fall their way to get them back on the board.

John Obi Mikel is back in favour (Picture: Getty Images)

3) John Obi Mikel may feature prominently

John Obi Mikel was a popular choice for Guus Hiddink, starting 16 out of 25 games during the Dutchman’s first spell at Stamford Bridge.

His return has seen the Nigerian return from injury time cameo obscurity, first with a 45 minute substitute appearance against Watford and then a start at Old Trafford.

After he again impressed we could see a renaissance in the career of Mikel who, despite his experience, is only 28 years old.

4) Chelsea lack a back-up striker for when Diego Costa is out

With Diego Costa injured, Hiddink opted to play without a recognised striker.

Yet while the forward four put in a decent performance, the team clearly lacked the presence of specialist striker. Particularly one in the mould of Costa.

Either Loic Remy was injured or his days at Stamford Bridge are numbered after being omitted from even the bench for the trip. Either way, the Blues will need to find new back up options.

5) Thibaut Courtois is still world class

Thibaut Courtois is still hugely important to Chelsea despite missing a large part of the season due to injury.

Although he was not often called upon at Manchester United, he made some crucial saves including one from point blank range in the second half to keep a much needed clean sheet and earn a point.

If he stays fit then Chelsea have a better chance of recovering in the second half of the season.